Crossword Genius

Former church official (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

prior

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue could be a double definition.

'former' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)

'church official' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for prior that I've seen before include "Coming before N a superior" , "High ranking person in monastery" , "English poet" , "Earlier, coming before another in time" , "Pre-existing; head friar" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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